Photographs contained in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. These photographs may not match
your installation.
NOTE:
Operator is cautioned to review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If
there are questions regarding the safe operation of this product, please contact Alpha Technologies or your
nearest Alpha representative.
NOTE:
Alpha shall not be held liable for any damage or injury involving its enclosures, power supplies, generators,
batteries, or other hardware if used or operated in any manner or subject to any condition not consistent with
its intended purpose, or is installed or operated in an unapproved manner, or improperly maintained.
TM
Contacting Alpha Technologies: www.alpha.com
OR
For general product information and customer service (7 AM to 5 PM, Pacic Time), call
1-800-863-3930,
For complete technical support, call
1-800-863-3364
7 AM to 5 PM, Pacic Time or 24/7 emergency support
Review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there are any questions
regarding the safe installation or operation of the system, contact Alpha Technologies or the nearest Alpha
representative. Save this document for future reference.
To reduce the risk of injury or death, and to ensure the continued safe operation of this product, the following
symbols have been placed throughout this manual. Where these symbols appear, use extra care and
attention.
ATTENTION:
The use of ATTENTION is only for specic regulatory/code requirements that may affect the placement of
equipment and installation procedures.
NOTE:
A NOTE gives readers additional information to help them complete a specic task or procedure.
CAUTION!
The use of CAUTION indicates safety information intended to PREVENT DAMAGE to material or
equipment.
WARNING!
WARNING presents safety information to PREVENT INJURY OR DEATH to the technician
or user.
6
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Page 7
Battery Safety Notes
WARNING!
Lead-acid batteries contain dangerous voltages, currents and corrosive material. Battery
installation, maintenance, service and replacement must be performed only by authorized
personnel.
Chemical Hazards
Any gelled or liquid leakage from a valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery contains dilute sulfuric acid,
which is harmful to the skin and eyes. Emissions are electrolytic, and are electrically conductive and
corrosive.
To avoid injury:
Servicing and connection of batteries shall be performed by, or under the direct supervision of, personnel •
knowledgeable of batteries and the required safety precautions.
Always wear eye protection, rubber gloves, and a protective vest when working near batteries. Remove all metallic •
objects from hands and neck.
Batteries produce explosive gases. Keep all open ames and sparks away from batteries.•
Use tools with insulated handles, do not rest any tools on top of batteries.•
Lead-acid batteries contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or •
other reproductive harm. Battery post terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash
hands after handling (California Proposition 65).
Wear protective clothing (insulated gloves, eye protection, etc.) when installing, maintaining, servicing, or replacing •
batteries.
If any battery emission contacts the skin, wash immediately and thoroughly with water. Follow your company’s •
approved chemical exposure procedures.
Neutralize any spilled battery emission with the special solution contained in an approved spill kit or with a solution •
of one pound bicarbonate of soda to one gallon of water. Report a chemical spill using your company’s spill reporting
structure and seek medical attention if necessary.
Always replace batteries with those of an identical type and rating. Never install old or untested batteries.•
Do not charge batteries in a sealed container. Each individual battery should have at least 0.5 inches of space •
between it and all surrounding surfaces to allow for convection cooling.
All battery compartments must have adequate ventilation to prevent accumulation of potentially dangerous gas. •
Ventilation should prevent trapped hydrogen gas pockets from exceeding a 1% concentration as per regulation 70E
of the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).
Prior to handling the batteries, touch a grounded metal object to dissipate any static charge that may have developed •
on your body.
Never use uninsulated tools or other conductive materials when installing, maintaining, servicing, or replacing •
batteries.
Use special caution when connecting or adjusting battery cabling. An improperly connected battery cable or an •
unconnected battery cable can make contact with an unintended surface that can result in arcing, re, or possible
explosion.
A battery showing signs of cracking, leaking, or swelling should be replaced immediately by authorized personnel •
using a battery of identical type and rating.
Equipment Cautions
Do not operate NiCd and lead-acid batteries in the same room. NiCd emissions will neutralize the lead-acid solution, •
rendering the battery useless.
Overcharging the battery can result in a loss of capacity and excess release of gas.•
Recycling and Disposal Instructions
Spent or damaged batteries are considered environmentally unsafe. Always recycle used batteries or dispose of the
batteries in accordance with all federal, state and local regulations.
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
7
Page 8
1.0 Introduction
The SMU-C series of Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries is designed to meet the needs of
modern electronic equipment. The success of the AlphaCell SMU-C series is due to a product design
purpose-built for the needs of critical backup requirements, and an industry-leading manufacturing
technology which delivers product consistency. Safety, reliability, and long service life in standby
applications are the result.
1.1 Features
Require no additional water throughout their life cycle, reducing maintenance costs. •
Specically designed to meet the requirements of modern electronic equipment. •
Compatible with commonly available recharging systems.•
Compact construction and excellent performance at high rates of discharge provide big •
savings in volume and weight compared to conventional vented batteries.
SMU-C batteries offer substantial savings in installation and maintenance costs •
compared to conventional vented batteries. No specically designed rooms are required
and only minimal maintenance is needed during the life of the battery.
Smaller, more compact, and lighter than traditional batteries, SMU-C batteries are •
supplied lled and charged so they can be immediately installed directly into cabinets or
on easily assembled racks (also available from Alpha).
With a minimum 10 year design life, the SMU-C batteries are highly reliable and fully •
comply with established international standards. The SMU-C range has been fully tested
with respect to charge and discharge characteristics, cycle life, recombination efciency,
mechanical strength, vibration life, and ame retardancy.
SMU-C 6-4.564.514.62.76 x 1.85 x 4.21 / 70 x 47 x 1071.8 / .82
SMU-C 6-768.032.45.94 x 1.34 x 3.94 / 151 x 34 x 1003.0 / 1.4
SMU-C 6-12613.254.15.94 x 1.97 x 3.94 / 151 x 50 x 1004.2 / 1.9
SMU-C 12-4.5124.514.63.54 x 2.76 x 4.21 / 90 x 70 x 1073.7 / 1.7
SMU-C 12-7128.032.45.94 x 2.56 x 3.98 / 151 x 65 x 1015.6 / 2.5
SMU-C 12-121213.254.15.94 x 3.86 x 3.98 / 151 x 98 x 1018.8 / 4.0
SMU-C 12-141214.056.05.94 x 3.86 x 3.98 / 151 x 98 x 1019.3 / 4.2
SMU-C 12-18122073.77.13 x 3.03 x 6.57 / 181 x 77 x 16713.2 / 6.0
SMU-C 12-26122898.36.89 x 6.54 x 4.92 / 175 x 166 x 12519.6 / 8.9
SMU-C 12-28122898.36.50 x 4.96 x 7.17 / 165 x 126 x 18218.7 / 8.5
SMU-C 12-30123098.36.57 x 4.96 x 6.93 / 167 x 126 x 17622.5 / 10.2
SMU-C 12-3512351387.68 x 5.12 x 7.09 / 195 x 130 x 18023.2 / 10.5
SMU-C 12-4012411527.76 x 6.50 x 6.69 / 197 x 165 x 17030.2 / 13.7
SMU-C 12-5512561979.02 x 5.43 x 8.98 / 229 x 138 x 22837.5 / 17.0
SMU-C 12-65126623113.98 x 6.58 x 7.21 / 355 x 167 x 18350.0 / 22.7
SMU-C 12-75127626510.16 x 6.61 x 8.90 / 258 x 168 x 22650.7 / 23.0
SMU-C 12-90129230512.01 x 6.61 x 8.90 / 305 x 168 x 22663.7 / 28.9
SMU-C 12-1001210236412.99 x 6.77 x 8.70 / 330 x 172 x 22168.3 / 31.0
SMU-C 12-1201212243815.94 x 6.89 x 9.25 / 405 x 175 x 23583.8 / 38.0
SMU-C 12-1341213638113.43 x 6.77 x 11.34 / 341 x 172 x 28893.7 / 42.5
SMU-C 12-1501215454619.09 x 6.77 x 9.45 / 485 x 172 x 24099.2 / 45.0
SMU-C 12-2001220256820.55 x 9.37 x 9.29 / 522 x 238 x 236134.5 / 61.0
Normal
Voltage
(V)
Rated
Capacity
C20 (Ah)
Rated Power
(15min, 1.75V, W)
Dimensions
L x W x H (in/mm)
WT
(lb/kg)
Table 1-1, General Electrical and Mechanical Specications by Model
(Specications courtesy of manufacturer)
TorqueSpecication
Torque specications are 8.0Nm (75lbf-in). Torque all terminal connections to the
specied value. Improper torquing can result in loose connections or damaged
terminals.
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
9
Page 10
1.0 Introduction, continued
-40-30-20-10 0102030405060
0
20
40
60
80
100
1.3 Operating Conditions
Because SMU-C batteries, which are valve regulated and virtually sealed, do not give off
perceptible amounts of gas under normal operating conditions, they can be installed in the
same environment where people live and work.
Acceptable ambient operating temperature: -40ºF to 131ºF (-40ºC to 55ºC)•
Ideal ambient operating temperature: 68ºF to 77ºF (20ºC to 25ºC)•
Ambient humidity: ≤ 95%•
Operating room or area: ventilated and not fully sealed •
1.4 Capacity
Battery capacity is rated in Ampere hours (Ah) and is the quantity of electricity that can be
supplied during discharge (See Table 1-1).
The actual capacity is related to the utilization ratio of the active positive and negative
materials within the battery. The utilization ratio is inuenced by the depth of discharge, the
structure of the battery, and the manufacturing technology. During normal usage, the factors
that inuence the actual capacity are discharge rate, depth of discharge, end voltage, and
temperature.
The higher the discharge rate, the lower the available capacity.•
As batteries get colder, the available capacity is reduced. This is related to the kinetics of •
the electrochemical reactions and the resistivity of the electrolyte (See Fig. 1-1).
NOTE:
Although the battery can be operated at temperatures below 5ºF (-15ºC), the capacity and ability to
discharge will be dramatically decreased. Similarly, temperatures approaching 122ºF (50ºC) will increase
water loss and corrosion of the plates, resulting in a shorter battery life.
Capacity (%)
Ambient Temperature (ºC)
Fig. 1-1, Available Capacity vs. Ambient Temperature
10
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Page 11
1.0 Introduction, continued
1.5 Temperature and Battery Life
High temperatures can harm the battery and reduce its lifespan. Battery life decreases by
50% per 15ºF (~ 9ºC) above the standard operating temperature of 77ºF (25ºC).
To minimize battery damage:
Use temperature compensated chargers.•
Never allow the battery's temperature to exceed +131ºF (+55°C).•
Make sure operating area is properly ventilated, so heat cannot accumulate.•
Provide at least 0.39" (10mm) of space between batteries to enhance convective cooling.•
Visit sites annually to check for shorted cells, improperly set voltages, lter cleaning on •
ventilation systems, etc.
1.6 Internal Resistance and Short-circuit Current
The internal resistance of the battery is affected by temperature and charge state. The
internal resistance is lowest when the battery is fully charged.
Internal
Type
SMU-C6-4.522273
SMU-C6-7 14429
SMU-C6-1210600
SMU-C 12-4.535343
SMU-C 12-720600
SMU-C 12-1216750
SMU-C 12-1416750
SMU-C 12-1814857
SMU-C 12-26121000
SMU-C 12-28121000
SMU-C 12-30121000
SMU-C 12-35101200
SMU-C 12-40 9.51263
SMU-C 12-556.02000
SMU-C 12-656.02000
SMU-C 12-755.52182
SMU-C 12-905.22308
SMU-C 12-1005.02400
SMU-C 12-1204.52667
SMU-C 12-1344.03000
SMU-C 12-1504.03000
SMU-C 12-2003.83158
Resistance
(mΩ)
Short Circuit
Current (A)
Table 1-2, Internal Resistance and Short Circuit Current at 77ºF (25ºC)
CAUTION!
A short circuit current will decrease the voltage of the battery to 0V, and damage the internal
components.
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
11
Page 12
2.0 Charging Procedures
50%Discharge
100
120
80
20
0.05
60
40
0.25
0.10
0
0.20
0.15
100%Discharge
0
2.33
2.17
2.00
1.83
0
2
46
8
1012
Charge Characteristic
Constant Charge at 25.0A-13.80V (25°C)
Charge Capacity (%)
Charge Current (CA)
Charge Voltage (V/Cell)
Time (Hours)
Charge Voltage
Charge Capacity
Charge Current
NOTE:
Take measurements before and after charging and during discharge to help track changes and problems. Use
a form (see Section 6.0), to record the results. Wait two hours after charging before taking nal measurements
in order to allow the electrolyte to cool sufciently.
CAUTION!
If the heat generated as a result of charging exceeds the rate at which heat can be transferred out
of the battery, thermal runaway can occur and excessive overheating will result.
NOTE:
Refer to your particular charger’s manual for specic instructions regarding charger setup and operation.
2.1 General Charge
The limited current and constant voltage recharge method, also known as the modied
constant potential method, satises the need to have the battery quickly recharged while
ensuring maximum battery life. Figure 2-1 shows the relationship between current, voltage,
and charge for the SMU-C 12-100.
When to Charge
After installing or discharging the battery.•
If the battery has been stored for more than three months and the open circuit voltage is •
lower than 12.6V/block.
12
General Charge Procedure
Charge the batteries with a constant current no greater than 0.2C1.
voltage of 13.8V/block at 77ºF (25ºC) is reached.
Continue charging, reducing the current to maintain a constant voltage of 13.8V/block.2.
Fast Charge Procedure
Charge the batteries with a constant current no greater than 0.2C1.
voltage of 13.8V/block at 77ºF (25ºC) is reached.
Continue charging, reducing the current to maintain a constant voltage of 13.8V/block.2.
The batteries will be fully charged in 18-24 hours when the voltage is a constant 13.8/3.
block and the charge current has not needed adjustment for three continuous hours.
(SMU-C 12-100 with initial 0.1C20A current and limit voltage 13.8V/Cell)
Fig. 2-1, Charge Characteristics Curve
A until an average
20
A until an average
30
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Page 13
2.0 Charging Procedures, continued
2.2 Floating Charge
A oat charge keeps the battery in a fully charged state with a small but constant current to
automatically cover capacity loss resultant from self discharge and other discharges.
At 25ºC, the proper oating voltage for the C series is 13.68V/block. The temperature
compensate coefcient is -32.4mV/ºF/block (-18mV/ºC/block).
Ambient Temperature ºF (ºC)Floating Voltage (Vpc)
32 (0)13.73
41 (5)13.72
50 (10)13.71
58 (15)13.70
68 (20)13.69
77 (25)13.68
86 (30)13.67
95 (35)13.66
104 (40)13.65
Table 2-1, Floating Voltage at Different Temperatures
CAUTION!
If the oating voltage is higher than indicated in Table 2-1, then the oating current is also higher
than ideal and will accelerate corruption of the grid and shorten the life of the battery. If the oating
voltage is lower, the battery will not be kept in fully charged state, which will crystallize the PbSO4
(Lead Sulfate), decrease the capacity, and also shorten the life of the battery.
2.3 Discharge
The end voltage is the lowest voltage the battery can be discharged to without causing
damage. Usually, the 20 hour rate (C20) end voltage of a C battery is 10.5V/block. Although
the battery can be discharged below this voltage, doing so will not discharge any more
capacity and can affect its lifespan. It may be impossible to recharge a battery after several
over-discharges. After a discharge, recharge the batteries as soon as possible to maximize
battery life. See Section 5.0 for discharge specications.
Discharge Current (A)Discharge End-Voltage (Vpc)
I < 0.2C10.5
0.2C ≤ I < 0.5C10.2
0.5C ≤ I < 1.0C9.30
I ≥ 1.0C7.80
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Table 2-2, Discharge End-Voltage
13
Page 14
3.0 Storage
32ºF (0ºC)
50ºF (10ºC)
68
ºF
(2
0
º
C
)
8
6ºF (
3
0ºC
)
1
0
4ºF
(
40
º
C)
All lead acid batteries experience self-discharge while in open circuit storage. This causes circuit
voltage and capacity to decrease (see Fig. 3-1).
During storage please note:
The self-discharge rate is related to ambient temperature. The lower the temperature, the less •
the discharge. Batteries should be stored in a clean, ventilated, and dry location with an ambient
temperature of 32ºF to 95ºF (0ºC to 35ºC).
It is important to track open circuit voltage which is related to the density of the electrolyte. If the •
open circuit voltage is lower than 12.6V/block, or the batteries have been stored for three months,
the batteries should be charged to avoid damage caused by self-discharge.
All batteries should be fully charged before storage. Record the storage date and next •
supplemental charge date in a maintenance record (See Fig. 4-2).
Residual Capacity (%)
Storage Time (Months)
Fig. 3-1, Capacity vs. Storage Time
14
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Page 15
4.0 Maintenance
4.1 Recommended Maintenance Tasks
In order to prolong battery life, perform regular maintenance and inspections.
Monthly Maintenance
Keep the batteries and battery room clean.•
Measure and record the ambient temperature of the battery room.•
Check for damage and overheating evidence on the terminal, container, and lid.•
Measure and record the total voltage and oating current of the battery system.•
Quarterly Maintenance
Measure and record the oating voltage of every on-line battery. If the voltage of
more than two cells is less than 13.0V after temperature adjustment, discharge the
battery and then recharge at the oat rate. If the problem still exists, conduct yearly
or three-year maintenance procedures. If the problem persists, please contact Alpha
Technologies.
Yearly Maintenance
Check for loose connections.•
Conduct a discharge test to check the exact load, discharging 30-40% of the •
rated capacity.
Three-Year Maintenance
After three years of operation, conduct an 80% capacity test annually.
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
15
Page 16
4.0 Maintenance, continued
Type:Place:
Test Status:Qty:
Total Voltage (V):Room Temperature:
Current (A):
No.Voltage (V)No.Voltage (V)
113
214
315
416
517
618
719
820
921
1022
1123
1224
Visual check:
Fig. 4-1, VRLA Battery Regular Maintenance Record
16
745-680-B11-001, Rev. A
Page 17
5.0 DischargeSpecications
5.1 Discharge Data with Constant Current
Amperage values for each battery model as a function of time and voltage @ 77°F/25°C.
SMU-C 6-4.5
End voltage 5Min10Min 15Min 30Min 1h3h5h10h20h
1.60V17.610.98.255.033.201.400.860.470.25
1.67V16.510.47.944.813.161.350.840.460.24
1.70V15.110.07.754.383.061.260.820.460.24
1.75V14.89.697.504.162.921.220.800.460.23
1.80V13.39.256.813.852.731.170.760.450.23
1.85V11.78.816.133.542.541.130.710.440.22
SMU-C 6-7
End voltage 5Min10Min 15Min 30Min 1h3h5h10h20h
1.60V39.024.318.311.25.692.501.530.830.45
1.67V36.623.017.610.75.612.401.490.820.43
1.70V33.522.217.29.715.442.241.460.820.43
1.75V32.921.516.69.225.182.171.430.820.42
1.80V29.420.515.18.544.852.081.340.800.41
1.85V26.019.613.67.864.522.011.260.790.40
SMU-C 6-12
End voltage 5Min10Min 15Min 30Min 1h3h5h10h20h
1.60V65.040.430.518.69.384.122.521.370.74
1.67V61.038.429.317.89.263.962.461.360.71
1.70V55.937.028.716.28.983.702.411.350.70
1.75V54.835.827.715.48.553.572.361.350.69
1.80V49.034.225.214.28.013.432.221.320.67
1.85V43.332.622.613.17.463.312.081.300.65
SMU-C 12-4.5
End voltage 5Min 10Min 15Min 30Min 1Hr 3Hr 5Hr 10Hr 20Hr